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How to repair a leaking shower faucet

A faucet shower leaking not only wastes water, but increases the bill of service. Taking charge of the problem as quickly as possible is wise and environmentally friendly. A leaky faucet is usually a sign that a part has been worn out and needs to be replaced. The washers or seals are under pressure as the water flows through them, so it is normal for them to wear out over time.

Instructions

  1. Locate the water heater in your house and close the valves.
  2. Go back to the bathroom, turn on the shower faucet and drain excess water.
  3. Depending on the type of shower faucet, you may have to work on one or two valves. The instructions below are for a two-valve shower faucet, in which the washers should be replaced. Unscrew the screws holding the handle or knob on the faucet and remove both (cold and hot).
  4. Once the handle or knob has been removed, remove the water guard.
  5. Unscrew the nut holding the stem.
  6. Unscrew the stem to the left using channel blockers.
  7. Replace the rubber washer located at the end that goes to the tube.
  8. Replace the washer seal in the middle section of the stem.
  9. Clean any dirt from the tube and replace the parts in the reverse order.
  10. Re-caulk around the faucet guard to protect your wall from damage.

Tips & Warnings

  • It is best to replace all seals and seals at the same time.
  • If you are not very familiar with the replacement parts for the shower faucet, go to a hardware store and ask for assistance in finding the parts you need.
  • If you have a gas water heater, you will need to re-turn on the heater pilot.
  • Also, avoid taking more than two hours to complete the repair to avoid damage to the water heater tank.